Southeastern has announced its strategic academic realignment, which will take effect in Fall 2026, creating a standalone College of Nursing and restructuring other colleges to better support student success and respond to regional workforce needs.
In an email sent to the university’s community on Thursday, Feb. 12, Southeastern Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Eric Skipper explained the affected colleges are as follows:
- The College of Nursing
- The College of Education, Health and Human Sciences (CEHHS)
- The College of Business
The realignment has resulted in the creation of a standalone college, The College of Nursing, focused solely on the university’s nursing programs. The college will span three campuses, four undergraduate programs and multiple graduate programs.
In addition, the College of Education will merge with the Department of Health and Human Sciences to create its own college, CEHHS.
The unification will create a “holistic hub for professional development and community wellness,” Skipper said.
Furthermore, the College of Business will change while maintaining its name; it will incorporate the Health Systems Administration and Sports Management programs.
The changes came as a result of a series of internal discussions over several months, engaging with deans, department heads and faculty members alike to improve coordination, resources and overall synergy among the affected disciplines.
Skipper explained the changes were implemented to more adequately align with Louisiana’s economic priorities as well as foster long-term growth.
“These changes are designed to balance our resources more effectively and foster new synergies between our education, business, and health-related disciplines,” Skipper said. “By streamlining our structures, we are ensuring that our programs have the dedicated leadership and resources necessary to meet regional demands.”
The following colleges will remain unaffected:
- The College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
- The College of Science and Technology
- The College of Honors and Excellence
Although the resulting changes are large, university leaders do not foresee any impact on curriculum, tenure, promotion processes or student learning.
“Our goal is to make the transition as seamless as possible for the entire campus community,” Skipper said.
For those looking for more information or to bring forward questions, the SLU Faculty Senate will meet this Wednesday, March 4, at 3:30 p.m. in Fayard Hall, room 101. Meetings are open to the public.
If students have any questions surrounding the realignment, they are encouraged to contact their respective dean or the Provost’s Office.
